My journey is personal, but my work is for everyone.

Throughout her journey, Selena has seen the barriers that prevent her people from traveling on the path they want to take.  Being a single mom with four kids, two of whom have special needs, she has first-hand experience with the lack of resources and culturally centered support available in Native communities. This is why Selena has taken it upon herself to receive the education she needs to be a guiding light for her tribal community and help clear a better path for them. 

The road has not been easy – trying to provide for and nurture her children while working towards her degree, Selena was diagnosed with breast cancer. Resilience has been instilled in Selena for generations and not only is she beating cancer, but she is also still on her path to complete her degree in human services. Selena sees the gaps in tribal communities that desperately need to be filled – and she knows that with her education, nothing will stop her from creating happier, healthier lives for her family and community.  

“I keep going because I know education is the key to success. It helps Native Americans like me become self-sufficient individuals and we, in turn, show others they can do the same.”